CARSON, Calif. – Oscar Sorto and Jose Villarreal rejoined the LA Galaxy in training on Monday following the completion of the U.S. campaign at the 2013 U-20 World Cup in Turkey.
Both players returned to California earlier this weekend and promptly returned to training following LA’s disappointing 3-2 defeat to the San Jose Earthquakes last Saturday.
As far as what the players learned in Turkey, both noted that they became more familiar with the fast-paced international speed of play.
“[The pace of the game] was much faster,” admitted Villarreal. “The way that these guys train is at a higher pace than us. It was definitely a learning step for me, so I’ll try to include that here.”
Villarreal didn't simply touch on his own performance as he impressed with Sorto's showing in his two matches-- despite playing out of position at right midfield for the final game against Ghana.
“He did well,” said Villarreal. “He came in as a right mid so it was a lot different for him. Obviously playing against some of the top players in the world at that age was going to be a challenge for him, but I think that he did well. As soon as he changed back to right back, he was a lot more comfortable and showed his ability to play.”